The Mystery Of Post-Travel Fever: Unraveling Belize's Secrets

There are many potential causes of a high fever after visiting Belize. Dengue fever is a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes that causes fever, headache, and severe joint, bone, and muscular pain. Dengue is present in some regions of Belize, and there were reports of increasing cases in early 2023.

Chikungunya, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can also cause fever. There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in Belize within the last 5 years.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Belize, although there are no cases in Belize City.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection found in Belize, can cause fever. It is spread by swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water or having contact with urine-contaminated mud.

Zika, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can cause fever. There is a risk of Zika in Belize, and it is recommended that travellers to the country use mosquito repellents and wear protective clothing.

Dengue fever

There is no vaccine for dengue fever, so prevention is key. This involves taking measures to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing long clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping in air-conditioned or screened rooms. It is also important to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. If you are bitten by mosquitoes, be sure to wash the area, avoid scratching, and apply remedies to reduce itching.

If you do contract dengue fever, it is essential to seek prompt medical care, stay hydrated, and use specific pain relievers under medical guidance to aid your recovery.

Zika virus

Zika fever, also known as Zika virus disease, is an infectious disease caused by the Zika virus. The virus was first isolated in 1947 in the Zika Forest of Uganda and was found in a rhesus macaque monkey. The first human cases were reported in Nigeria in 1954.

Zika fever is mainly transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes of the Aedes type, which are most active early in the morning and at dusk. The female Aedes aegypti mosquito is responsible for the transmission of the disease as she needs human blood for the development of her eggs and metabolism. The male does not feed on blood. Aedes mosquitoes usually bite during the day and are found in tropical and subtropical regions.

Most people infected with the Zika virus do not develop symptoms. However, those who do typically experience fever, red eyes, joint pain, headache, and a maculopapular rash. These symptoms generally last less than seven days and are usually mild.

Zika fever can also be sexually transmitted and potentially spread by blood transfusions. Infections in pregnant women can spread to the baby, causing microcephaly and other brain malformations. In adults, Zika fever has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rapid onset of muscle weakness caused by the immune system damaging the peripheral nervous system, which can progress to paralysis.

To prevent Zika fever, it is important to avoid mosquito bites and practice safe sex if travelling to or living in areas where the disease is present.

Food and water safety

Water

Belize Water Services treats the water supply in Belize, and it is generally safe to drink in cities and towns. However, some choose to boil tap water or opt for bottled water due to its high mineral content and unusual taste. Outside of urban areas, water may come from wells or rainwater tanks, so it is recommended to check with your accommodation about the source of the water.

Food

Food hygiene standards in Belize are generally good, especially in high-end lodgings and restaurants that cater to tourists. However, it is still recommended to follow basic food safety guidelines, such as:

• Opting for fully cooked dishes
• Avoiding raw seafood
• Choosing eateries with good hygiene practices
• Prioritising bottled beverages
• Being cautious with ice
• Drinking alcohol responsibly
• Maintaining vigilant hand hygiene
• Avoiding unsanitary street food

Animal bites

• Rabies: Belize is considered a high-risk country for rabies, which is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, especially dogs, cats, bats, and monkeys. The disease is fatal, and urgent medical advice should be sought after any animal bite, even if you've received a pre-travel rabies vaccine.
• Chagas Disease: This disease is spread through the bites of triatomine bugs and can lead to serious health issues. It is endemic in some areas of Belize, so insecticide use and insect avoidance are crucial.
• Leishmaniasis: Leishmaniasis is transmitted primarily through infected sand fly bites. Minimizing exposure to sand flies is essential, and early detection and treatment can prevent serious symptoms.
• Dengue Fever: Dengue fever is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes that are active during the day and are more common in urban areas and after heavy rains. Symptoms include high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, and a rash. There is no vaccine, so prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites.
• Snake Bites: While snake encounters are rare in Belize, there are a few venomous species. If bitten, it is important to stay calm, seek medical attention, and follow advice on first aid for snakebites.
• Scorpion Stings: Scorpions are common in Belize and can be found in dark corners, beaches, and piles of wood. Their stings are typically no more harmful than a bee sting, but they can be life-threatening to individuals prone to anaphylactic shock.
• Spider Bites: Although spiders are prevalent in Belize, including tarantulas, they are not known to aggressively seek out people to bite. However, it is important to take precautions such as shaking out bedclothes and checking shoes before wearing them.

To prevent animal bites in Belize, it is essential to take precautions such as wearing long clothing, using insect repellents, and avoiding areas with high insect populations. Additionally, staying up-to-date with routine immunizations and seeking medical advice before travelling can help reduce the risk of infections transmitted through animal bites.

Insect bites

Mosquitoes in Belize are most active during the rainy season (June to November) and are commonly found in areas with stagnant water, like marshes, puddles, and rice fields. They are more prevalent in the lower, flatter regions of the country. The mosquitoes that carry malaria are active in the evenings and at night, while those that carry dengue fever are active during the day. To prevent mosquito bites, it is recommended to limit exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, pants, and socks. Using mosquito nets, fans, and repellents can also help deter mosquitoes.

Sand flies, also known as no-see-ums, breed in wet, sandy areas and are known for their aggressive biting. While they are not known to carry diseases, their bites can be painful and itchy, and scratching them can lead to infection. Applying thick oils, such as baby oil or hempseed oil, can help create a barrier against sand fly bites.

It is important to be vigilant and take precautions when spending time outdoors in Belize to reduce the risk of insect bites and potential associated complications.

Frequently asked questions